ISLAMABAD: Pakistan produced its best-ever performance at the ITF Masters World Team Championships, winning the silver medal in the 45+ age category after suffering a closely fought 2-1 defeat against top seeds and tournament favourites Spain in the final.
The championship was decided in the second singles match, where Pakistan’s Aqeel Khan lost 6-4, 6-2 to Spain’s Francisco Javier Martinez Baena.
Aqeel enjoyed an impressive tournament, securing several important victories in both singles and doubles alongside former Davis Cup player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi. However, after several consecutive days of demanding matches, fatigue became a factor against a strong and well-rested Spanish team.
Pakistan reached the final after defeating the United States, Canada, hosts Portugal and Sweden during an impressive campaign.
The silver medals and runners-up trophy were presented at the Jamor Tennis Centre in Portugal by the President of the International Tennis Federation and the President of the Portuguese Tennis Federation.
Portugal’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Paulo Domingues, also attended the medal ceremony and was thanked by the Pakistani team for his support throughout the tournament.
More than 30 countries and over 300 players participated in the championships. Pakistan emerged as the only Asian country to win a medal, highlighting the growing presence of Pakistani players on the international Masters tennis circuit.
Following the final, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi praised his teammates for their dedication, professionalism and teamwork.
“This has been an unforgettable week for Pakistan tennis,” Qureshi said while congratulating Aqeel Khan, Shehryar Salamat and Hadi Hussain on their performances.
Qureshi also thanked the team’s sponsors, Lama Retail, SICAS Schools, Tablevelics and Faizan Steel, for supporting Pakistan’s participation in the tournament.
He expressed appreciation to the Pakistani media for its coverage and thanked supporters at home and abroad for their encouragement.
Qureshi also acknowledged Ambassador Domingues for attending the closing ceremony and supporting the team in Portugal, saying such gestures helped strengthen the friendship between Pakistan and Portugal.
Pakistan’s silver medal marks a historic achievement at the ITF Masters World Team Championships and concludes an impressive campaign built on determination, sportsmanship and strong team spirit.
